Which plaque description corresponds to a plaque with a smooth, non-irregular surface?

Which plaque description corresponds to a plaque with a smooth, non-irregular surface?

• A. Intraplaque hemorrhage
• B. Calcified plaque
• C. Ulcerated plaque
• D. Smooth plaque

Answer: (D)

A plaque with a smooth, non-irregular surface signals stability: its fibrous cap is intact and the surface isn’t disrupted, indicating a plaque that’s less prone to rupture. When there’s intraplaque hemorrhage, the surface becomes soft and irregular due to the bleeding within the plaque and the formation of a necrotic core, making it unstable. An ulcerated plaque has actual erosions or ulcers on its surface, producing a clearly irregular appearance. Thus, the description of a smooth plaque best matches a stable, intact surface, whereas the other descriptions describe surface disruption or different internal changes that disrupt smoothness.

A plaque with a smooth, non-irregular surface signals stability: its fibrous cap is intact and the surface isn’t disrupted, indicating a plaque that’s less prone to rupture. When there’s intraplaque hemorrhage, the surface becomes soft and irregular due to the bleeding within the plaque and the formation of a necrotic core, making it unstable. An ulcerated plaque has actual erosions or ulcers on its surface, producing a clearly irregular appearance. Thus, the description of a smooth plaque best matches a stable, intact surface, whereas the other descriptions describe surface disruption or different internal changes that disrupt smoothness.